Biology and Forensic Science

3+2 Master of Science in Forensic Science (M.S.F.S.) with a B.A. in Biology

Arcadia is one of only a select few master’s programs in Forensic Science accredited by the Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC). Forensic science is the application of science to the purposes of law. It is highly interdisciplinary by nature and has become a vital part of the judicial and regulatory system in America. Practicing forensic scientists, law enforcement personnel, and criminal justice professionals all recognize the growing need for highly qualified specialists who can execute established and appropriate techniques in the collection, preservation, analysis, and presentation of forensic evidence.

This program provides an accelerated pathway through the Undergraduate Curriculum into Arcadia’s master’s degree program in Forensic Science. During the first three years of study, a student takes prerequisite Biology and Chemistry coursework and Undergraduate Curriculum requirements. In the third year, students have the option of taking FS515 (Research Methods). They must speak with the program director if they are interested in this option. In the fall of their third year, students must notify the director of the Forensic Science Program that they are planning on enrolling in the Forensic Science Program the following year.

In the fourth year of study, the student completes the Senior Seminar and Capstone requirements for the undergraduate degree and begins graduate coursework, which is completed in the fifth year. In five years, students earn both the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Biology and the Master of Science in Forensic Science (M.S.F.S.).

Interested students must apply for admission to this accelerated program when they apply for admission to Arcadia University. Currently enrolled undergraduates at Arcadia University may not apply for this program. Students who do not meet eligibility requirements of this accelerated program or who want more flexibility in their undergraduate program may take both degrees, the B.A. in Biology and the M.S.F.S., in the normal sequence.

4+2 Master of Forensic Science Assured Admission Program

This program entails four years of study leading to a bachelor’s degree plus two years of graduate study leading to the Master of Science in Forensic Science degree from Arcadia University. Students choosing the 4+2 option must pursue an undergraduate major in Biology or Chemistry. This program will ensure that students meet all required prerequisite and recommended coursework for the master’s program in Forensic Science. Assured admission into Arcadia’s master’s program in forensic science is available for select qualified students from the 4+2 program each year.